Ultimate Guide for First-Time Caravan Owners

JAWA’s Ultimate Guide for First-Time Caravan Owners

Welcome to the world of caravans and campers! Whether you’ve just bought a new caravan or camper, or you’re considering buying a caravan for the first time, you’re about to embark on an incredible journey. As exciting as it is, there’s no doubt that stepping into this world can be daunting, particularly when there are so many terms, tips, and guidelines you need to follow.

First time owning a caravan? We’re here for you. As Australia’s leading specialist in off-road caravans and campers, the JAWA family protects your family by providing all the info you need to get on the road safely. And once you’re on the road, no matter where that might be, we’ll be there to provide genuine support when you need it.

We’ve created the ultimate guide to caravanning Australia – a one-stop resource for all the essential information you need to know as a first-time caravan owner.

Welcome to the JAWA family! Let’s get started.

Decoding Caravan and Camper Terminology

If it’s your first time owning a caravan, understanding the terminology can feel like learning a foreign language. Here’s an easy cheat sheet of all the terms you need to know so you can better understand your vehicle.

• Pop Top: A pop top caravan has a roof that can be raised and lowered as required, allowing for extra headroom when the vehicle is stationary or maintaining a low profile for easier towing.
• Hybrid: This is a cross between a traditional caravan and a camper trailer. Offering the best of both worlds, it has the comfort and amenities of a caravan with the off-road capabilities and outdoor living of a camper trailer.

• Hard top: A hardtop caravan has a fixed roof and typically offers more insulation and protection against the elements.
• Solid caravan: A more traditional, fully enclosed caravan with strong walls and a fixed roof. It usually has more living space and better amenities.

• Caravan vs. camper: The main difference is the size, the way indoor space is utilised and the terrain they would usually have the capability of travelling. A caravan is usually larger (wider and longer) with kitchen, dining/living space and often a bathroom inside and is usually more of an on-road vehicle. A camper is more compact and designed for outdoor living and is ideal for off-road adventures. Hybrids give you the best of both worlds.
• Dinette: a small dining area in the caravan that usually includes a table and seating and can sometimes be converted into a bed.

• Electric hook-up (EHU): The EHU is a way to connect your caravan to the mains electricity supply at a campsite for power. While most caravan parks and campsites have 10AMP plugs suitable for your usual outdoor extension leads some require a 15AMP cord, which has a larger Earth pin. When you adventure in a JAWA off road camper or hybrid you do not need to worry about EHU – you are solar powered all the way as standard.
• Weight distribution: Refers to how the weight of your caravan or camper is spread across the length and width of the vehicle. Proper weight distribution is essential for safe towing, so keep this in mind when packing a caravan for the first time.

• Caravan coupling: The connection between your caravan and the tow vehicle allows movement and flexibility while ensuring a secure attachment.
• Nose weight: This is the weight exerted on the tow ball of your vehicle by the caravan. It needs to be balanced to ensure stable towing.
• Payload Capacity: The maximum allowable weight you can add to your caravan, including equipment, belongings, water and passengers. This will depend on the make and model of your caravan or camper.

• Caravan numbers (10, 12, 15, 18): These refer to the length of the caravan in feet and can give you a rough idea of the caravan’s size, weight, and stability when towing. The larger the number, the more space the caravan has inside, but it also means a heavier vehicle. JAWA caravans offer clever engineering and stability, no matter their size.

Towing a Caravan for the First Time

Towing a caravan for the first time can be a nerve-wracking experience. However, with a solid understanding of some key terms and concepts, you’ll be on the road and enjoying your adventure in no time.

Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) Rating

This is the maximum allowable total mass of a fully loaded tow vehicle (your car) as specified by the manufacturer. It includes the tare mass (base weight of the vehicle), load, fuel, occupants, cargo, and any add-on accessories.

Gross Combined Mass (GCM) Rating

The total allowable combined weight of the fully loaded vehicle (including passengers, fuel, all luggage) PLUS the weight of the fully loaded caravan or camper, hitched together. This is found in your car owner’s manual.

Aggregated Trailer Mass (ATM) Rating on a Caravan

This is the total allowable weight of the caravan when fully loaded and includes everything – the caravan’s weight (TARE weight), plus all fluids, accessories and luggage – when not coupled/hitched to your towing vehicle.

Caravan Gross Trailer Mass (GTM) Rating

This refers to the maximum weight that the axles of the caravan or camper can carry when the caravan is fully loaded and hitched up to your car. Your caravan’s GTM is the ATM weight minus the tow ball weight.

ATM vs GTM vs GCM

ATM and GTM relate to caravan weight. Weighing the caravan only on a weighbridge, the ATM is the fully loaded caravan’s weight when not coupled to a tow vehicle. GTM is the weight of the fully loaded caravan when it is hitched to the tow vehicle.

GCM relates to the vehicle and caravan weight combined. To determine your GCM, the fully loaded towing vehicle and hitched/coupled fully loaded trailer are weighed together on the weighbridge.

Tow Ball Weight

Also known as ball load or tow ball mass, this is the load exerted on the tow ball of the tow vehicle. In Australia, the ball weight is generally around 10% of the ATM (Aggregated Trailer Mass).

Towing Capacity

The maximum weight your vehicle can safely tow. It will depend on plenty of factors including engine type and size, transmission type, suspension, maximum tow ball weight and more. You can find this information in your car owner’s manual. JAWA campers come with their own braking system. Built light for off road manoeuvrability, your standard SUV will usually have enough towing capacity but check your car manual to be sure.

Tips for First-Time Towing

Here are a few practical tips to help you tow your caravan or camper safely and confidently:

1. Get Weighed: It is highly recommended that you load your vehicle and van with everything you think you would take on your adventures so you know your setup is safe and legal.
2. Take It Slow: There’s no need to rush when you’re towing a caravan for the first time. Take your time to get used to the feel of the caravan on the road.
3. Practise Manoeuvring: Consider a course in towing or spend time practising turning, reversing, and parking in a safe, open environment before hitting the road.
4. Check Brake Lights and Indicators: Make sure you have plugged in the leads to your vehicle and that all lights are working properly.
5. Check Your Mirrors: Ensure you have a good view of the road behind you. Depending on the dimensions of your towing vehicle, you may need to fit extension mirrors to see past the caravan.
6. Load Correctly: When setting up your caravan, evenly distribute the load to maintain balance and prevent swaying.
7. Final Check: Regular checks of the caravan or camper prior to hitting the road are essential to ensure your caravan remains in top condition and safe to travel. Did you shut everything up and tie everything down properly? Has anything been damaged or shaken loose while off road? Are your tyres still looking good?
8. Drain the Water System When You Get Home: Drain the water system or completely fill after each trip. You should also regularly clean your water system with a suitable cleaner to prevent bacteria from building up.
9. Store Properly After Use: Proper storage is essential when you’re not using your caravan. Store it in a secure, dry place to protect it from the elements.
10. Ensure You Are Fully Insured: Get insurance that will protect you financially in the event of theft, damage, or accidents.

For more, check out JAWA’s Parking and Hitch Tips.

Understanding Caravan Tyre Pressure

The right tyre pressure for your caravan is essential for safe and efficient towing. It impacts your caravan’s handling and braking, as well as tyre wear, fuel consumption, and overall safety.

Why is Tyre Pressure Important?

Having the right tyre pressure is more than just convenient, it directly impacts many aspects of your caravan’s operations.

One of the primary reasons why caravan tyre pressure is so important is that it ensures stability and control while towing. Accurate pressure helps to maintain optimal contact between your caravan’s tyres and the road surface which is critical for traction and steering precision.

Incorrect tyre pressure can significantly affect the life of your caravan’s tyres. Over-inflated tyres can reduce traction and increase wear on the central tread. Underinflated tyres, on the other hand, wear more on the shoulders due to increased flexing. This creates uneven wear patterns which are unsafe.

The right level of inflation for your tyres can also contribute to better fuel efficiency. When your tyres are at the recommended pressure, your caravan’s engine doesn’t have to work as hard to overcome increased rolling resistance caused by underinflated tyres. This means you’ll save money and reduce your impact on the environment.

Finally, proper tyre pressure impacts your overall comfort. Underinflated tyres can make your caravan feel sluggish and less responsive, while overinflated tyres may result in a bumpier ride.

What Should My Caravan Tyre Pressure Be?

The right tyre pressure for your caravan depends on a few things. First, you need to consider the weight of your caravan as heavier caravans require higher tyre pressure to support the load properly. The type of tyres on your caravan also needs to be considered, as different tyre models and brands have varying pressure recommendations.

Additionally, the conditions in which you’ll be towing your caravan play a significant role. For example, if you’re travelling on rough terrain or in extreme weather, you’ll need to adjust your tyre pressure accordingly. A valuable rule of thumb to keep in mind is that your caravan’s tyre pressure can increase by around 4 PSI (pounds per square inch) once the tyres have warmed up.

Off-Road Camper Tyre Pressure

When driving off-road, you may need to adjust your tyre pressure to suit the terrain. Lowering your tyre pressure can improve traction on soft surfaces like sand or mud. Remember to re-inflate your tyres once you’re back on sealed roads to prevent tyre damage and excessive wear.

Checking and Adjusting General Tyre Pressure

You should also regularly check your tyre pressure before hitting the road and when you stop along the way. Use a reliable tyre pressure gauge and check the pressure when the tyres are cold, as heat can increase pressure readings. Adjust the pressure according to your caravan or tyre manufacturer’s recommendations if you need to.

Check out our video Tyre and Wheel Maintenance for more information.

Speed Limit for Towing a Caravan in Australia

While you’re thinking about correct tyre pressure, remember the maximum speed limit when towing a caravan is generally the same as the posted speed limit, but it can vary by state, so it’s essential to check local regulations. Always drive at a speed that is safe and comfortable for your skill level and the current driving conditions.

Essential Caravan Maintenance Tips

Taking care of your caravan is key to enjoying hassle-free adventures for years to come. It will also keep you safe on the roads. Here are our top tips for caravan maintenance.

Tip 1: Complete routine checks, to catch any potential issues early

• Look for signs of wear and tear, particularly in high-impact areas such as the hitch and wheels.
• Check the seals around the windows and doors for leaks or cracks. If cracked or loose, they could let dust and water in and cause mould and mildew.
• Inspect the roof for damage, leaks will lead to mould growth.
• Ensure vents are clear of obstruction. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent condensation and dampness inside the caravan.
• Ensure all lights and signals work.
• Check your gas pipes for wear and tear and replace them if necessary.
• Ensure your handbrake is functioning correctly. Check your brakes for any signs of wear or damage.

Tip 2: Regularly check your tyres

Regularly check your tyres for any signs of wear and tear or damage, including cuts, bulges, or punctures. Also, ensure they are the correct tyre pressure and don’t forget to include your spare tyre – you never know when you might need it.

Tip 3: Clean your caravan

Regularly cleaning your caravan keeps it looking great and prevents issues down the line.

• Vacuum the floors, wipe down surfaces, and clean the kitchen and bathroom.
• Wash the exterior with a soft brush to remove dirt and grime.
• Apply protective treatments to prevent rust and UV damage.
• Don’t forget the underside and roof.

Tip 4: Check caravan plumbing and appliances

Check all your plumbing fixtures for signs of leaks and make sure all your appliances are working correctly, including your fridge, oven, water pump, and heating system. You should also clean the filters and vents on these appliances.

Tip 5: Regular caravan servicing

Like a car, your caravan needs regular professional service. This will involve checking the brakes, lights, suspension, wheels, and bearings, among other things. Regular servicing and maintenance are essential to ensure your caravan remains in top condition and safe to travel.

Tip 6: Annual gas checks

Have your gas system checked annually by a professional and Licenced Gas Fitter. They will check the lines, pressure and regulator of the gas system.

Tip 7: Store your caravan or camper properly

Proper storage is essential when you’re not using your caravan. Drain the water system completely before storage to prevent bacteria build up. Store your caravan or camper in a secure, dry place to protect it from the elements and use a breathable cover to prevent condensation and mould.

Tip 8: Check your caravan battery capacity

Ensure the battery is fully charged before you set off on adventures and consider investing in additional solar panels, batteries or a generator if you are heavy power users.

Tip 9: Ensure your caravanning safety equipment is in working order

Safety should always be your number one priority, so regularly check your emergency equipment, including fire alarms, fire extinguishers and first aid kits, to make sure they are in good working order, and nothing is missing or expired. A well-stocked first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, medical tape, and other essentials.

For a more comprehensive guide, check out our video on camper maintenance.

More First Time Caravan “Essentials”

Before you hit the road, there are a few essential items you might need to ensure comfortable adventuring.

Caravan dust reduction system: If you plan on travelling off-road or in a dusty area, you need the best dust reduction system available. This will reduce the dust entering your caravan. JAWA’s range of off-road campers and caravans come with a high quality dust reduction system as standard.

Caravan suspension: A good suspension system is essential when travelling off-road. While most caravans come with a standard system, JAWA’s range comes with high quality, heavy duty suspension suitable for your off road adventures – improving your comfort and durability.

Towing mirrors: If your caravan is wider than your vehicle, towing mirrors will give you a better view of the road behind you. Most of the JAWA camper range are designed narrow and do not require mirror extensions.

Weight distribution hitch: This helps to evenly distribute the weight of your caravan across all the axles of your vehicle and the caravan, improving stability and control while driving. JAWA Off Road Campers are designed to be light, come with off-road coupling as standard and do not require a weight distribution hitch.

Sway control hitch: Swaying can be a problem encountered while towing a caravan and a sway control hitch can help to minimise this, providing a smoother ride. It is typically caused by poor weight distribution. JAWA Off Road Campers are lightweight, designed with weight distribution in mind, come with off-road coupling as standard and do not require a sway control hitch.

Caravan air conditioning: When you are out on the country and the heat inescapable, there will be times when you need air conditioning. The entire JAWA Off Road Campers range comes with air conditioning as standard.

Final thoughts

A caravan or camper is your ticket to a life full of adventure, exploring new places and making great memories with family and friends. But if it’s your first time owning a caravan, it’s important to be prepared – and the learning curve can feel steep!

That’s where JAWA Off Road Campers comes in. We don’t just sell caravans, campers, and accessories. We live and breathe the caravanning lifestyle – and we’re here to help you get the most out of your caravanning adventures, too. From choosing the right model for your needs to advice on setting up your caravan, when you join the JAWA family, we’re with you every step of the way. Whether you’re cruising the Great Ocean Road or trekking across the Nullarbor Plain, we won’t leave you stranded!

So if you’re planning for first-time caravan adventures across Australia, get in touch with our team for all the best products and advice.